Strengthening Watershed Resilience in Lake County
What is a WRAP
Why Twin Lakes
Stakeholder Portal
Get Involved
A Proactive Approach to Wildfire Risk
Wildfires pose an increasing threat to Colorado’s landscapes, communities, and watersheds. In response, ARWC has launched the Twin Lakes Wildfire Ready Action Plan (WRAP), a proactive, data-driven planning effort designed to identify wildfire risks and develop targeted mitigation strategies.
This initiative will assess wildfire risks and post-fire watershed vulnerabilities throughout the Lake Creek Watershed and hydrologically connected regions, including Mt. Elbert Forebay and Grizzly Reservoir. The plan will provide a roadmap for future wildfire mitigation and watershed restoration efforts to protect both natural resources and community assets.
Supported by the Colorado Water Conservation Board’s Wildfire Ready Watersheds program, the WRAP brings together state, federal, and local partners to create a science-based strategy that safeguards the region’s forests, water, and infrastructure.
What is a Wildfire Ready Action Plan?
The WRAP is a comprehensive study designed to:
- Assess wildfire and post-fire watershed risks using geospatial analysis and predictive modeling.
- Identify priority areas where mitigation efforts can have the greatest impact.
- Develop a strategic action plan to guide future on-the-ground projects.
By incorporating new wildfire risk modeling, community input, and existing research, the WRAP will build on Lake County’s Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) and support long-term forest health and watershed resilience efforts.
(Want to learn more? Read the funding announcement that helped launch this project!)
Project Phases & Next Steps
The WRAP will unfold in several key phases, beginning with a technical planning process that includes:
- Wildfire & Watershed Risk Analysis – Using advanced modeling to assess where mitigation efforts are needed most.
- Stakeholder Collaboration – Engaging landowners, agencies, and local groups to align priorities.
- Project Prioritization – Identifying the most effective mitigation strategies for funding and implementation.
By mid-2025, the WRAP will result in a comprehensive action plan that outlines shovel-ready projects for wildfire mitigation and watershed protection. Future phases will focus on securing funding to turn these plans into action.
Why it Matters
The Twin Lakes region is a high-risk area due to its steep terrain, dense forests, and critical water infrastructure. The 2024 Interlaken Fire was a stark reminder of the wildfire threats facing the watershed and the potential for long-term post-fire impacts.
This project:
- Protects Water Resources: The watershed supplies drinking water, supports hydropower, and sustains aquatic ecosystems.
- Improves Forest & Community Resilience: Strategic mitigation can reduce fuel loads and safeguard homes, trails, and infrastructure.
- Prepares for Post-Fire Recovery: Planning now ensures a swift, coordinated response if a fire does occur.
This initiative is part of ARWC’s broader commitment to wildfire mitigation, complementing programs such as fuel reduction projects, the Lake County chipping program, and post-fire recovery efforts.
Get Involved & Stay Updated
The success of the Twin Lakes WRAP depends on collaboration with local stakeholders, landowners, and community members. Your input is invaluable in shaping this plan and ensuring it reflects the needs and priorities of those who live, work, and recreate in the region.
Here’s how you can get involved:
Stay Informed
Follow ARWC’s updates on the WRAP’s progress through our website, newsletters, and public meetings.
Provide Input
Community perspectives are key to identifying priority areas. Look out for surveys, open forums, and opportunities to share your knowledge of local conditions.
Partner with Us
If you represent a local agency, business, or community organization and want to support wildfire resilience efforts, we welcome partnerships!
Learn More
The WRAP will integrate with ongoing mitigation and watershed health projects in Lake County. Connect with ARWC to see how you can take part in existing efforts, from fuels reduction programs to riparian restoration.
Together, we can build a Wildfire Ready Watershed for Twin Lakes!
Building a Collaborative Plan for the Future
The Twin Lakes WRAP is more than just a study—it’s a proactive blueprint that will guide long-term wildfire mitigation and watershed restoration efforts for years to come. By bringing together local expertise, cutting-edge data, and strong partnerships, ARWC is laying the groundwork for a safer, more resilient future for the watershed and its communities.
This plan is just the beginning. As we move into the next phases of implementation, collaboration and community engagement will remain at the heart of our efforts.
Stakeholder Portal: Your Hub for Project Updates & Resources
To ensure ongoing transparency and engagement, ARWC is developing a Stakeholder Portal, a centralized platform where partners and participants can stay engaged with the WRAP. The portal will include:
🔹 Maps & Technical Data – View interactive maps, fire modeling results, and watershed risk assessments.
📄 Surveys & Feedback Opportunities – Provide input and stay involved in key decision-making processes.
🗓 Meeting Notes & Events – Stay up to date with meeting schedules, summaries, and upcoming engagement opportunities.
📢 Announcements & Next Steps – Be the first to know about WRAP milestones and future funding opportunities.
The Stakeholder Portal will launch soon—stay tuned for updates!